Hundreds of walkers took part in Hospiscare’s A Jolly Good Jaunt at the weekend - and are already halfway to raising the £20,000 target for Kings House Day Hospice, in Honiton.

In all, 418 walkers enjoyed a seven-and-a-half mile stroll through East Devon’s countryside – with the good walking weather encouraging an extra 67 people to turn up on the day.

The walk was based at the Deer Park Hotel in Honiton, and walkers took up the Jaunt’s tweed theme with gusto - wearing a variety of caps and jackets.

Musicians from Teenagers Support Hospiscare played, along with the Amycrofters Folk Dance Band and Lydia Capon.

Charlotte Knipe, Hospiscare fundraiser, said: “It was a fabulous day; there was a great fun atmosphere and good weather.

“We are so grateful to everybody who came along to support the fantastic work being done at Kings House.

“Having completed the walk, we are now urging walkers to collect in their sponsorship money so we can start putting it to good use through our local services.

“The walk had a great community and family atmosphere and it’s obvious how much people enjoyed dressing up in tweed. The Deer Park Hotel was the perfect setting for the Jaunt and we are delighted to be able to return this year and are grateful for their generosity.

“We would also like to thank the Midweek Herald for actively promoting the walk.

“The event would not be possible without sponsorship from Axminster Tools and Machinery. We are grateful for their ongoing support.

“Support from Tesco Honiton has been incredible. Staff have promoted the walk, fundraised in store, donated items and entered the largest team.

“The enthusiasm of manager Duncan Sheridan-Shaw has been infectious and he is a great advocate for the work we do locally.

“We would also like to thank Hospiscare’s Honiton Support Group and many volunteers from local Round Table and Rotary groups and others who helped ensure the smooth running of the day.”

Many walkers who came along last year returned, including nine-year-old Dominic Case, who brought his brother Bradley, seven, along.

So far, the boys have raised £150.

The Amycrofters Band also handed over a cheque for £183 from street entertainment and a garden party.